It seems like just yesterday you were taking them to their first day of preschool. Now, they’re ready for their first car! This huge step towards adulthood should not be taken lightly. You and your teen will need to sit down, plan a budget, and discuss the weight of the responsibility. Here are a few things to remember before your teen's first vehicle purchase!

Meet halfway

Your teenager might be preoccupied with how pretty the color is or looking for turbocharged motor while you worry about finding something safe and affordable. You have to listen to your teen’s requests, voice yours, and meet halfway. There’s always a middle ground, especially between a Barbie mobile and a mini van.

Shop around first

Visit the local dealerships in your areas and look at numerous makes and models. This should just be a shopping day. No test-driving, just looking at facts. Understanding the customer climate together will help you come to a more informed decision. When you've agreed on a few different makes and models, go for test drives, bring a checklist and then really dig deep for the info you need.

New or used

Discuss whether their first car will be new or used. If you go with a used, you have to do your homework because there are plenty of scammers out there. Go to a reputable dealership. No online bargaining with some stranger. Check the quality of both new and used cars. Don’t forget to have a pre-inspection done by a certified mechanic.

Safety first

Teen drivers between 16 and 19 are four times more likely to crash than older drivers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Safety is essential here. Don’t only pay attention to the size of the car but also look at its crash test results and the safety features it offers.

Educate

No teens like a lecture from their parents but you have to sit them down before they get their new car about the responsibilities of being a driver, how to be safe and their responsibilities with the car. Are they in charge of paying the insurance? The gas? Washing it? They’ll hate hearing this (again), but driving is a privilege.